
Safe & Secure Tennessee
Our Story
Safe & Secure TN evolved as an extension of the long history of community training offered by the Memphis Family Connection Center (MFCC). Both MFCC and Safe & Secure TN are programs of Empowered to Connect (ETC). ETC is a dynamic network of programs aimed at increasing access to holistic care for individuals, families, and communities.
As an ambassador organization of Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development (KPICD) Safe and Secure TN, offers multi-disciplinary training to caregivers and professionals supporting children who have experienced adversity, trauma, and loss. The research-based and empirically validated intervention, Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI®), is utilized to guide our training and consulting services. Safe & Secure TN collaborates with organizations and stakeholders across communities to build capacity for trauma-informed care across systems.
Safe & Secure TN is made possible through the support and grant funding of Show Hope, a nationally recognized advocate for children and families, founded by Mary Beth and Steven Curtis Chapman and based in Franklin,Tennessee.
In our individual and joint efforts to reduce the impact of adverse childhood experiences and trauma in Tennessee, we are grateful for our partners Show Hope and the KPICD.
Bringing TBRI® to Tennessee
Safe & Secure TN believes that children and families will flourish in communities that collaborate to make intentional, systemic changes to become trauma-competent. Our approach disseminates valuable information while guiding individuals and organizations in the implementation of TBRI® practices. We recognize the value of collaboration both within and across sectors to support the development of trauma-competent systems.
Educate: Knowledge

Knowledge is a key component of growth and well-being. We educate individuals, parents, caregivers, and community stakeholders on the importance of attachment-rich, trauma-informed, strength-based policies and practices.
Equip: Skills

Information leads to transformation through applying knowledge. We equip individuals, parents, caregivers, and community stakeholders with the skills and practices they need to experience hope, healing, and lasting change.
Empower: Support

We respect every person and community’s capacity to create positive change and impact. We believe that individual and collective transformation happens through relationships and community. We offer gentle guidance in support of individual, organizational and systemic change.
Watch this video from the Karyn Purvis Institute for Child Development or visit here to learn more.
What is TBRI®?
TBRI® is an attachment-based, trauma-informed intervention that is designed to meet the complex needs of children who have experienced trauma and chronic stress. TBRI® educates and equips caregivers with knowledge and skills that empower them to provide healing care for children. This intervention developed out of a strong research base of attachment theory, sensory processing, and neuroscience. However, the heartbeat of TBRI® is connection. In addition to successful use by families, TBRI® has been used in multiple settings to effect change, including intensive home programs, residential treatment centers, and schools.
TBRI® Ambassador Organization
Safe & Secure TN through Empowered to Connect is proud to be a TBRI® Ambassador Organization. TBRI®, or Trust-based Relational Intervention, is an attachment-based, trauma-informed intervention designed to meet the complex needs of children and families who have experienced adversity, early harm, toxic stress, or trauma. TBRI® Ambassador Organizations partner with TCU’s KPICD in their mission of bringing hope and healing to vulnerable children worldwide. These organizations have a relationship rooted in mutual trust and connection with the KPICD, and actively cultivate a TBRI® culture within their organization, from top leadership to the clients they serve. TBRI® Ambassador organizations have been thoroughly vetted throughout their TBRI® implementation process and are committed to partnering with KPICD through influencing systems of care and practice.